P.S. Any idea on a worth? It's from my grandfather so selling it is out of the question!

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Jim Watson

May 6, 2008, 03:19 PM

The illustrated revolver is a S&W .38-44 Heavy Duty, known after numbers were assigned as a Model 20, not a Military & Police. I do not have the reference book to look up the year made. When Old Fuff and some of the other regulars see this, they will be a lot of help.

The King's Super Target conversion, with hammer, ventilated rib, checkered backstrap, and probably a trigger job, was done aftermarket by King's Gun Sight Co. of San Francisco, not by S&W.

I don't know the dollar value, but it is substantial. You could ask on the S&W board.
http://smith-wessonforum.com/eve/forums
for money and year information.

Grandpa had good taste and was probably a good shot.

elrod

May 6, 2008, 10:19 PM

With a s/n of 55005, it is a pre-war model manfactured between 1930-1941.

These values are historically conservative, and do not include modifications such as the vent rib. Hope that helps.....Al

Welcome to THR!:)

Old Fuff

May 6, 2008, 11:22 PM

During the 1930's and 40's King Gunsight had a considerable reputation as handgun "customizers." Both S&W and Colt offered their sights as factory options. Apparently your revolver has a King "short action" conversion as well as a checkered backstrap, in addition to the rib, wide spur hammer and adjustable sight. These touches would add to it's value. The stocks appear to be later replacements, and there is some minor signs of rust that would detract from its value, All things being equal, I'd say between $900 to $1,200 on the collector's market.

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